Dispensing Nozzle and Cap

ABSTRACT

A dispensing nozzle having: (i) an elongate nozzle body having a base portion and a dispensing end; (ii) an internal conduit in the nozzle body for delivering product from the base portion to the dispensing end; (iii) engaging formations on the nozzle for inter-engaging with co-operating engaging formations on a cap, to hold said cap in a position over-fitting the nozzle; and (iv) an external ramp on the nozzle body and against which a co-operating portion on the cap may act, to provide sufficient relative separation force between the cap and the nozzle body, to separate the engaging formations on the cap and the nozzle from an inter-engaged position. A cap for overfitting a dispensing nozzle is also provided having: (i) a first closed end; (ii) a housing for receiving an elongate nozzle body and defining a second open end; (iii) engaging formations on the cap for inter-engaging with co-operating engaging formations on the nozzle, to hold said cap in a position over-fitting the nozzle; and (iii) a mouth about the open end; at least one co-operating portion on the cap arranged to act on a ramping surface of the nozzle when overfitted on the nozzle so as to provide sufficient relative separation force between the cap and the nozzle body, to separate the engaging formations on the cap and the nozzle from an inter-engaged position. The cap and nozzle when inter-engaged are easily separated by substantially less than one 360° turn and provide a strong separating force which can overcome fouling or bonding caused by curing of dispensed product.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a dispensing nozzle and cap. Theinvention also relates to an assembly comprising the nozzle or cap andto a container fitted with the nozzle and/or cap.

2. Brief Description of Related Technology

There have been provided many types of nozzles for dispensing adispensable product. Caps which fit over the nozzle to close the nozzleoff after use and for storage are also well known. The nozzles/caps maybe employed in many end-use applications.

One problem which arises in certain instances is the removal of the capfrom the nozzle. This occurs when the nozzle has been used to dispenseproduct and product remains on the exterior of the nozzle when thedispensing action is complete. Replacement of the cap over the nozzle,often times then causes the cap also to be contaminated with theremaining product. This may in turn cause difficulty in subsequentremoval of the cap from the nozzle. Product may for example cause thecap to be bonded to the nozzle and/or may otherwise interfere with theremoval of the cap from the nozzle for example by fouling screw-threadsetc.

Difficulty of removal of the cap from its position over-fitting thenozzle is undesirable, as a user of the product which is beingdispensed, may find that they can no longer manually remove the cap fromthe nozzle, because the resistance to doing so by the product may be toogreat. If any tool is employed to assist a user in trying to remove adifficult-to-remove cap then the force applied to remove the cap candamage the nozzle and/or cap so that they no longer fit together in therequired fashion. It is quite usual, in circumstances where a mechanicalforce is employed, to experience some form of material failure forexample: shearing off the nozzle; breakage of the cap; or rupturing ofthe container for holding the product to be dispensed.

Attempts have been made to provide nozzle/cap arrangements which seek tominimise the circumstances in which material failure might occur, and toallow a user to remove the cap from its position over-fitting the nozzlewith a minimum of force.

One known cap/nozzle assembly comprises a cap of the type having anelongate nozzle body having a base and a second dispensing end. Aconduit defined in the nozzle body is provided for delivering productfrom the base to the dispensing end. The nozzle has three portions ofdifferent diameter. One portion of the nozzle is provided with externalscrew threads, which co-operate with internal reciprocal threads on theexterior of an over-fitting cap.

The over-fitting cap is of the type having a first closed end; a housingdefining a second open end and with a rim about the open end. The cap isalso provided with screwthreads, which co-operate with the externalreciprocal threads on the exterior of the nozzle.

Both parts are typically made from very strong plastics material, sothat they can withstand the quite substantial forces which may beapplied, to try to remove the cap from its position over-fitting thenozzle. The screwthreads are arranged with a relatively low pitch sothat the relative rotation of the cap and the nozzle is relatively easyfor the user. The screwthreads are located at a position where they arespaced quite a distance from the dispensing end of the nozzle so thatthe risk of contamination with product is minimised. However even withsuch a construction the two parts become bonded and prove difficult toremove. Notwithstanding the use of stronger materials, material failuresuch as described above can occur in the event that relativelysubstantial mechanical force is applied.

Furthermore the costs of the materials which are used to make thenozzle/cap arrangement are substantial, given the need for stronglyconstructed components which is reflected in thicker walls etc. which inturn is achieved by utilising greater amounts of materials. In someearlier constructions a pin provided within the cap and arranged topenetrate the conduit of the nozzle was necessarily of metalconstruction. Another problem experienced with some prior artarrangements is that of spreading of the cap due to deformation of thecap due to forces applied to remove the cap from the nozzle. In suchcase the cap diameter misshapes spreading away from the nozzle.

It is thus desirable to provide a nozzle and cap arrangement whichaddresses the problem of difficulty in opening the cap when thearrangement is contaminated with product and also to reduce costs in thematerials being employed, in particular by reducing the amounts ofmaterials being employed, and also by reducing the assembly costs duringmanufacture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a dispensing nozzle having:

-   -   (i) an elongate nozzle body having a base portion and a        dispensing end;    -   (ii) an internal conduit in the nozzle body for delivering        product from the base portion to the dispensing end;    -   (iii) engaging formations on the nozzle for inter-engaging with        co-operating engaging formations on a cap, to hold the cap in a        position over-fitting the nozzle; and    -   (iv) an external ramp on the nozzle body and against which a        co-operating portion on the cap may act, to provide sufficient        relative separation force between the cap and the nozzle body,        to separate the engaging formations on the cap and the nozzle        from an inter-engaged position.

The advantage provided by the construction of the present invention isthat the separation force provided is high relative to the manual effortrequired. The construction is also one which allows less material to beused in the manufacture of the nozzle thus reducing costs. Additionallythe construction of the invention eliminates the necessity forconventional, and in particular low-pitch, screwthreads. Eliminatingconventional screw-threads removes one potential source of the problemof having nozzle and cap locked to each other by fouling with dispensedproduct. The ramp and the co-operating portion may skid against eachother so as to provide the desired action. The ramp/co-operating portionmay thus act as a type of skid-pan.

The nozzle of the invention may be integrally formed with a containerfor holding the dispensable product. Alternatively it may be providedwith engaging formations such as snap-fit or screwthreads for engagingwith corresponding engaging formations on a container.

The nozzle of the invention may be used to dispense industrial orconsumer products. In particular the nozzle of the invention isparticularly suited to dispensing curable products such as adhesive.

It is desirable that the separating force of the co-operating surfaceand the external ramp is provided by the action of relative rotation ofthe cap and the nozzle in at least one direction. This may be achievedby having a ramping surface oblique to the direction of rotation of thecap. It is more desirable that the separating force is provided byrelative rotation of the cap and the nozzle in two opposing directions.This may be achieved by having two opposing (and oppositely facing) rampsurfaces which are oblique to the direction of rotation of the cap.

However, if desired, for example for better visual indication to a userof the product, the ramp may have a stop at one end thereof and againstwhich the cap will abut when engaged with the nozzle. This will providea positive stop for the cap when the cap is being attached to thenozzle. Helical screw thread type arrangements will generally not havesuch a positive stop as interengagement is secured to a degreedetermined by the applied relative rotation forces about the screwthreads. Where a stop is present on one or opposing ramps the user willthen better appreciate the direction of relative rotation required (e.g.left hand) to separate the cap and nozzle.

Desirably the relative rotation required to effect separation is lessthan about 90° more particularly less than about 80° for example lessthan about 60°. In one arrangement the angle of relative rotation isless than about 50° such as about 45°. In other words, in contrast withscrew-thread arrangements, separation (complete separation so that theyare no longer interengaged) of the nozzle from the cap can be achievedin (substantially) less than one 360° relative rotation or turn. Thecomponents are disengaged in less than one relative rotation. Typicallythe separation distance achieved is of the order of at least about 0.4mm such as at least about 0.5 mm, in particular at least about 0.75 mmfor example at least about 1 mm. This separation is as measured from thefully engaged position. The cap may still be (partially) overfittingposition on the nozzle but disengaged therefrom.

In one arrangement the ramp is provided by a ramp surface on an externalshoulder defined on the nozzle body. The external shoulder may bedefined on a bridging portion, on the nozzle, which bridges two portionsof the nozzle having different diameters. The bridging portion may, inparticular, be formed by a reduction in the nozzle diameter (as measuredacross between external surfaces). In general any such reduction in thenozzle diameter will be substantially co-incident on the nozzle with areduction in the diameter of the conduit. This means that the cap may beconstructed so that the base of the cap may abut the shoulder when thecap is over-fitted on the nozzle. In such a case the abutting portion ofthe cap will generally form the co-operating portion on the cap.

The shoulder generally provides a surface circumferentially disposedabout at least a portion of a longitudinal axis of the nozzle body.Generally the orientation of that surface is substantially transverse tothe longitudinal axis of the nozzle body.

Generally the ramp will have a ramp surface with a first (lower) portionand a second (higher) portion arranged so that movement along the rampfrom the first to the second portion will provide a desired lift. Thiswill also be the case where a second ramping surface is provided. In thelatter case the first portions of the respective ramps may be locatedproximate to each other while the second portions are generally furtherspaced apart (with both first portions located between them). It isdesirable that the ramp surfaces are arranged about a transverse axis ofthe nozzle body. For example the ramp surfaces may be (symmetrically ornon-symmetrically) curved about a transverse axis of the nozzle body.Generally the ramp surfaces may each be curved about a transverse axisso as to have a first (lower) portion and a second (higher) portion. Thefirst portion will, in general be further from the dispensing end of thenozzle than the second end. Two opposing ramp surfaces can be arrangedto meet contiguously at lower ends thereof. The meeting ramp surfacescan define a generally concave shape which will generally have at leastone curved surface. Where a stop is provided it can be positioned at theupper end of one of the opposing ramp surfaces.

The ramping surfaces may thus be provided by a dished type surface forexample a dished depression or trough, which could for example be formedin the shoulder. Where a dished surface is employed there will be ingeneral a (central) lower portion and two higher portions, movementalong the surface from the lower to (one of) the higher surface(s)provides the ramping action. Generally then, the lifting or rampingaction will be experienced by movement in either of two opposingdirections.

In general it is desirable that the, or each, ramping surface is curvedabout the longitudinal axis so as to follow the travel path of theco-operating portion on the cap of the nozzle. This may allow theco-operating portion on the cap to ride on the ramp through relativerotation, which can be continued until separation of the cap and nozzleare achieved.

Generally the ramp may be provided to extend less than about 45°(circumferentially) about the nozzle body. Where the separation force isachieved by relative rotation in either direction, movement along theramp surface from the lower part of the dished surface, to a higher partthereof, will be achieved generally, by movement across about half ofthe dished surface.

Desirably the ramp is provided on a circumferentially arranged ridgeportion which is spaced from, and extends about, a wall portion of thenozzle portion. This may be easily achieved, for example, by providing aridge portion of sufficient height on a shoulder so that an upperportion of the ridge extends about a wall portion of a reduced diameterportion of the nozzle body. The ridge may extend fully or partiallyabout the nozzle body—for example the ridge may be on one side only, onopposing sides and/or segmented. In this arrangement it is useful if theramp is provided in the ridge.

The co-operating portion of the cap can be arranged to extend radiallyoutwardly for acting on the ramp, while the mouth of the cap, in theover-fitting position, is further desirably seated in the at leastpartially annular seat between the ridge and the nozzle body. Thisprovides for a very snug fit of the cap to the nozzle and is attractivealso from an aesthetic point of view. It makes for a simple thoughdesirable construction. One particularly desirable construction is wherethe co-operating portion of the cap extends radially outwardly toproject beyond the ramp in the inter-engaged position of the cap and thenozzle.

A further important aspect of the invention is that the ramp and theco-operating portion are arranged so as to be clearly visible to a userin either the disengaged or inter-engaged position. The mating profileof the ramp and the co-operating portion give a very strong visualindication to a user as to the correct alignment of the cap and thenozzle for inter-engaging the two parts.

In one simple construction the cap and nozzle inter-engage in a push fitmanner for example a snap-fit arrangement. In this arrangement theengaging formations on the nozzle will be arranged for snap-fitengagement with the cap. In this arrangement the cap will snap-on andtwist (pop) off. Having snap-fit engagement of the cap and the nozzle isvery beneficial from the point of view of assembly of a cap and nozzlesuch as during a moulding or filling process. The cap and nozzle can beassembled easily by a simple push-fit avoiding the necessity forscrew-on about helical threads.

Where a snap-fit arrangement is employed it is desirable that the nozzleis provided with an external, and the cap is provided with an internal,inter-engaging formation. Inter-engagement can be achieved by snapfitting the internal inter-engaging formation over the external one.Desirably two (diametrically) opposing external and two (diametrically)opposing internal inter-engaging formations are provided. When relativedisengaging rotation is applied to the cap/nozzle assembly the ramp(s)may provide sufficient lift to the cap to un-snap the snap-fitformations. In this way for example the separation force created by theramps may force the internal inter-engaging formation (back) over theexternal one to release the cap from the nozzle.

In general the snap-on arrangement works well in a manufacturingenvironment. Having a snap-on twist-off arrangement is efficient andbeneficial but may cause a practical challenge to an inexperienced userwho is accustomed to screwing on and off caps. For such a person it isbeneficial to include a twist-on type action. In particular the presentinvention provides that additionally or alternatively that theinterengaging formations can be brought together to the interengagingposition by having one engage with the other by having it slide intoplace underneath the other by a twisting action on the cap. To preserveboth aspects of functionality it is desired that the twist-on typeaction is provided in addition to the snap-on action. In such anarrangement the cap can be push-fit on and twist-fit on it can be alsopull-off and twist-off.

This alternative or additional functionality may be achieved byprofiling the interengaging formations so as to have a matching profilewith the ramp(s). The interengaging formations will be profiled to mateto achieve the same mating engagement as if one formation had beenpushed across the other as in the push-on snap-fit engagement. In thisway the cap will turn and nest into the ramp(s) and simultaneously oneinterengaging formation engages with the other. The cap is then held inplace and can be snapped-off or twisted off at the user's selection.

Where interengaging (snap-fit) formations are provided those on thenozzle are desirably located on the nozzle body proximate the baseportion thereof. In one arrangement, where first and second ramps areprovided, (longitudinally) spaced apart along the nozzle body, thesnap-fit formations on the nozzle body are arranged on the nozzle bodybetween the first and second ramp.

Generally the interengaging formations will take the form of one or moreinterengaging ribs. In particular the rib(s) will be transverselyarranged on the nozzle and/or cap body. In this arrangement at least aportion of the rib(s) will run substantially perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis of the cap and/or the nozzle. The rib(s) willgenerally extend only a part of the way about the nozzle, for example(substantially) less than one half of the circumferential distance aboutthe nozzle).

A (tail) portion of the rib(s) may run obliquely (for example at arelatively large angle—for example 10° to 70°, such as 20° to 60°desirably 30° to 50° such as about 45°) with respect to the longitudinalaxis. That oblique portion is desirably profiled to match the profile ofthe ramp (and will generally turn upwardly through a relatively largeangle as described above). This is a particularly desirable form for therib(s) on the nozzle to take to follow the profile of any ramp on thenozzle. The rib(s) on the cap may be substantially linear, thoughdesirably set at a small oblique angle (such as less than about 15° suchas less than about 10°) to allow for smoother engagement of the cap withthe nozzle. Where respective ribs are provided each on the cap and thenozzle it is desirable that each extends only a part of the way aboutthe cap or nozzle. This is consistent with allowing the cap to beremoved in less than a full term as described elsewhere in thisapplication.

The general construction of the nozzle of the invention described aboveis sufficient to allow for ease of opening of the assembled cap andnozzle even in the case of a nozzle/cap which has been substantiallyfouled by dispensed product. The separation force is best achieved bytwisting off the cap which will achieve the ramping action.

The present inventors have however found that they can further improveon the separation aspect of the cap/nozzle by employing some of thefurther features described below.

In particular it is desirable to distribute the separation force betweenthe cap and the nozzle as described below. In particular this can bedone by providing other ramps and co-operating portions for creating theseparation action at different circumferential positions about thenozzle and at different positions along the nozzle. This distributes theforce to various spaced positions which gives improved cap removalproperties.

In one arrangement at least one further external ramp is provided on thenozzle body and against which a further co-operating portion on the capmay act. In one arrangement it is desirable to provide the at least onefurther ramp at a position spaced along the nozzle from the rampdescribed above.

Desirably that further ramp is provided on a second shoulder on thenozzle. Again the shoulder may be formed on a bridging portion on thenozzle. In one arrangement this shoulder is arranged so as to be locatedwithin the housing formed by the cap body when the cap is in theover-fitted position on the nozzle (the components are mated). Theadditional ramp will be arranged to co-operate with the ramp describedabove (in particular positioned and shaped) so that they act together toprovide separation force generally at the same time and in the samedirection at different positions between the cap and the nozzle.Generally the second ramp can be arranged on a shoulder and arranged asdescribed. The second ramp may be absent a ridge arrangement such asdescribed above. Generally the further co-operating portion of the cap(for co-operation with the further ramp) may be an internal shoulder.The internal shoulder may be provided by a reduction in the internaldiameter of the housing or on one or more portions arranged to projectradially inwardly. An internal rim or collar could be provided on whichthe shoulder is provided. The rim or collar may be continuous ornon-continuous as desired.

It is further desirable to provide even greater separation force betweenthe cap and the nozzle on relative rotation. This may be achieved byproviding at least one further external ramp on the nozzle body. It isdesirable that the at least one further ramp is provided forco-operation with internal longitudinal (positioning or guiding) ribsrunning along the internal cap body such as described in more detailbelow. In particular it is to be noted that two or more ramps may beprovided on the same shoulder portion on the nozzle. In particular itmay be desirable to provide at least one ramp which co-operates with theinternal projection(s) described above and another which co-operateswith the ribs.

In the case of providing separate ramps on a given position on thenozzle it is desirable that the ramps are spaced apart. For example oneramp could be provided against the nozzle body while the second isspaced (radially outwardly) therefrom. In one arrangement where tworamps are provided on a bridging portion it is desirable that one rampis provided at the junction between the bridging portion and that partof the nozzle with a lesser diameter. The other ramp can be provided atthe junction between the bridging portion and that part of the nozzlewith a greater diameter.

Generally it is desirable that the separation force is evenlydistributed about the nozzle. This may be achieved by providing at leasttwo ramps about the nozzle. In general the ramps may be provided so thatthey are diametrically opposed (e.g. centered 180° apart). In generalthis will provide for balanced transmission of the separation forcesbetween the cap and the nozzle. For example the separation force may betransmitted evenly to opposing sides of the cap.

In particular it is desired that the ramping surfaces provided bearranged in pairs. A first pair of opposite facing ramping surfaces maybe provided for providing the ramping effect in opposing rotationaldirections. Furthermore, a ramp on an opposing side of the nozzle couldbe provided so that the ramps on opposing sides could be matched as apair—each providing a separation action to opposing sides of the cap.

One particular desirable arrangement is to provide four rampingsurfaces. There will be two pairs of oppositely facing ramping surfaces.One pair of oppositely facing ramping surfaces will be on adiametrically opposed position to the other. Generally they will becentered 180° apart so that the ramping action experienced by the capwill be substantially the same in opposing rotational directions of thecap and will be substantially evenly transmitted to the cap ondiametrically opposed sides thereof.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that the ramp(s)described above may be provided at any desirable position on the nozzle,and may be provided so that co-operation portion(s) provided externallyor internally on the cap can act thereon. In particular if there is morethan one shoulder portions on the nozzle body the ramps could beprovided on any selected one or ones. Furthermore the number of rampsprovided may be adjusted as desired. It will be appreciated that theramps could also be provided at any position on the nozzle body forexample by forming the ramps directly on the nozzle body where desired.In particular the ramps could be provided at a position spaced from ashoulder on the nozzle body. In general it is desirable to provide aramp/co-operating portion arrangement at a position where the liftingaction achieved is close to any potential point of adhesion.

Suitably at least eight ramping surfaces are provided, positioned atleast two longitudinally spaced apart positions so that there are atleast 4 pairs of oppositely inclined ramping surfaces. Again at eachlongitudinal position there will be two pairs of oppositely facingramping surfaces. At each longitudinal position, one pair of thoseoppositely facing ramping surfaces will be on a diametrically opposedposition to the other. Generally each diametrically opposed pair will becentered 180° apart so that the ramping action experienced by the capwill be substantially the same in opposing rotational directions of thecap and will be substantially evenly transmitted to the cap ondiametrically opposed sides thereof. The eight ramp surfaces willgenerally be centred about axes which run parallel to a longitudinalaxis of the nozzle. For example four ramp surfaces may be centred abouteach of two axes which run parallel to a longitudinal axis of thenozzle.

In one particular construction at least twelve ramping surfaces areprovided, at least two longitudinally spaced apart positions so thatthere are at least 6 pairs of oppositely inclined ramping surfaces.Again at each longitudinal position there may be two or four (forexample where provided on the same shoulder) pairs of oppositely facingramping surfaces. At each longitudinal position, one pair (or two pairs)of those oppositely facing ramping surfaces will be on a diametricallyopposed position to the other pair (or other two pairs). Generally eachdiametrically opposed pair will be centered 180° apart so that theramping action experienced by the cap will be substantially the same inopposing rotational directions of the cap and will be substantiallyevenly transmitted to the cap on diametrically opposed sides thereof.Where eight ramping surfaces are provided generally at the same positionthey may be spaced apart with respect to each other as measured along atransverse axis of the nozzle. The twelve ramp surfaces will generallybe centred about axes which run parallel to a longitudinal axis of thenozzle. For example two ramp surfaces may be centred about each of sixaxes which run parallel to a longitudinal axis of the nozzle.

As above on at least one of the ramps one of the ramping surfaces can befitted with a stop if desired.

Desirably the dispensing end of the nozzle is adapted for fitting of acannula thereto.

The invention also relates to a container for holding the dispensableproduct having integrally formed therewith a nozzle of the invention.The invention further relates to an assembly comprising a container forholding the dispensable product having attached thereto a nozzle of theinvention.

The present invention also relates to a cap of the type arranged tooverfit and inter-engage with the nozzle described above. In particularthe present invention provides a cap for overfitting a dispensing nozzlecomprising:

-   -   (i) a first closed end;    -   (ii) a housing for receiving an elongate nozzle body and        defining a second open end;    -   (iii) engaging formations on the cap for inter-engaging with        co-operating engaging formations on the nozzle, to hold the cap        in a position over-fitting the nozzle; and    -   (iii) a mouth about the open end;    -   at least one co-operating portion on the cap arranged to act on        a ramping surface of the nozzle when overfitted on the nozzle so        as to provide sufficient relative separation force between the        cap and the nozzle body, to separate the engaging formations on        the cap and the nozzle from an inter-engaged position.

In particular it is desirable that the at least one co-operating portionprojection is shaped to mate with the ramp surface. In particular it isdesirable that the at least one co-operating portion is shaped to matewith the ramp profile (desirably of both ramping faces where present) ina nesting arrangement. When relative rotation takes place theco-operating portion rides on the ramping surface. In particular the atleast one co-operating portion is desirably of a convex shape. Such ashape allows sufficient relative separation force to be achieved througha small angle of relative rotation as described above. Generally, thelifting or ramping action, will be experienced by movement in either oftwo opposing directions—as described above though additionally oralternatively a stop may be provided which would prevent movement alongthe ramp in at least one of two opposing directions. The at least oneramp may be provided in the form of one or more ramping surfaces on thenozzle body.

Generally the ramp/co-operating surface will provide a separation of atleast about 0.5 mm from the inter-engaged position to the position atwhich maximum separation from action of the co-operating portion on theramp. Generally, irrespective of the general orientation of the capand/or nozzle this can be considered a lifting distance. Moreparticularly it is desirable that a separation of at least about 0.75 mmis achieved. It is desirable that a separation of at least about 1 mm isachieved on relative rotation. As above the separation can occur byhaving the interengaging formations move out of engagement by having onetravel across the other in a snap-off type arrangement. In anotherarrangement the separation occurs by one interengaging formationtravelling out from beneath the other on rotation.

In one embodiment the at least one co-operating portion is in the formof a projection. Generally the travel path of the co-operating portionon the cap will be circumferential about the nozzle.

In one arrangement two opposing co-operating portions are provided onthe cap. In one arrangement the cap is provided with an internalinter-engaging formation for inter-engaging with formations locatedexternally on the nozzle.

In one arrangement a further co-operating portion is provided on the capfor co-operating with the further ramp on the nozzle. Generally thefurther co-operating portion of the cap (for co-operation with thefurther ramp) may be an internal shoulder. The internal shoulder may beprovided by a reduction in the internal diameter of the housing or onone or more portions arranged to project radially inwardly. An internalrim or collar could be provided on which the shoulder is provided. Therim or collar may be continuous or non-continuous as desired. Again thefurther co-operating portion (and the ramp) are shaped to provide aseparation force on relative rotation of the cap and the nozzle. Ingeneral all of the separation forces are co-acting—arranged to provideseparation force at the same time as other mating ramp/co-operatingportion provided.

It is desirable that at least one internal longitudinal rib runningalong the internal cap body from the closed end toward the open end.Desirably at least two ribs are provided spaced apart within the capbody. More particularly it is desirable that at least three such ribsare provided. Generally the ribs will be evenly spaced apart within thecap body.

The cap is also desirably provided with a pin within the housingattached at one end to the cap and having a free end projecting towardthe open end of the cap. The pin is generally arranged to penetrate intothe conduit from the dispensing end of the nozzle. The pin is desirableto maintain the conduit, and in particular the dispensing end of theconduit, free from blockage. The ribs described above are generallyarranged as guiding ribs which arranged to run along the nozzle andguide the pin into the conduit as the cap is overfitted on the nozzle.

It is desirable that the pin is integrally formed with the cap.

Generally the separation force will be sufficient also to overcome anybond between the pin and the nozzle. Depending on the length of the pinutilised the separation achieved by action of the co-operatingportion(s) on the ramp(s) may be sufficient to remove the pin from thenozzle. In other words the vertical travel could be greater than thepenetration depth of the pin in the nozzle.

In particular it is to be noted that two or more ramps may be providedon the same shoulder portion on the nozzle. In particular it may bedesirable to provide one ramp which co-operates with the internalprojection(s) described above and another which co-operates with theribs.

In summary therefore the present invention provides a nozzle, cap and anassembly thereof which provide an easy-open mechanism. The componentsmay all be moulded from plastics materials. The skilled person canselect the materials as required for example for compatibility with theproduct to be dispensed. In particular it is desirable that thecomponents are made from curable product compatible products such asadhesive-compatible materials. In one arrangement the materials selectedare cyanoacrylate adhesive compatible. The containers of the inventioncan be relatively small, for example accommodating about 3 grams ofproduct, or large, for example accommodating 20-50 grams of product orcan be of a much larger size such as those accommodating up to 200-500grams of product and greater. The aesthetic profile is such as to give avisual aid to a consumer regarding the (re-)application of the cap tothe nozzle.

Where provided the snap-on/twist-off arrangement is particularlyconsumer friendly. The phenomenon of spreading of the cap due toapplication of excessive removal force is ameliorated by the design ofthe present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

It is to be noted that for the sake of convenience different drawingsare drawn to different scales. It will be appreciated however that thenozzle and the cap are dimensioned to inter-engage in an assemblyarrangement irrespective of the scale used in any particular drawing.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a nozzle of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows a side elevation of the nozzle of FIG. 1 from a first sidethereof.

FIG. 3 shows a side elevation from a second side thereof.

FIG. 4A shows a top plan view thereof (in the same orientation as inFIG. 3).

FIG. 4B shows an underneath plan view thereof (in the same orientationas in FIG. 3).

FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view along the line A-A shown is FIG. 4A.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of a cap of the invention.

FIG. 7 shows a side elevation of the cap of FIG. 6 from a first sidethereof.

FIG. 8 shows a side elevation from a second side thereof.

FIG. 9A shows a top of the plan view thereof (in the same orientation asin FIG. 7).

FIG. 9B shows an underneath plan view thereof (in the same orientationas in FIG. 7).

FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view along the line A-A shown in FIG.9A.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of an assembly comprising the nozzle ofFIG. 1 having overfitted thereto and inter-engaged thereon the cap ofFIG. 6.

FIG. 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of anozzle of the present invention.

FIG. 14 shows a side view of the nozzle of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 shows a top plan view of the nozzle of FIG. 13.

FIG. 16 shows a sectional view of the nozzle of FIG. 13.

FIG. 17 shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of a capof the present invention.

FIG. 18 shows a side view of the cap of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 shows a top plan view of the cap of FIG. 17.

FIG. 20 shows a sectional view of the cap of FIG. 17.

FIG. 21 shows a side view of the cap of FIG. 17 on the nozzle of FIG. 13i.e the cap nozzle assembly.

FIG. 22 shows a sectional view of the assembly of FIG. 21.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is now made to the accompanying drawings. In particular FIGS.1-17 will be utilised to describe various embodiments of variouscomponents of the present invention in some detail.

FIGS. 1-5 show a dispensing nozzle 1 according to the present invention.The dispensing nozzle 1 has an elongate nozzle body 2. The nozzle bodyhas a base portion 3 in the form of an annular skirt 4. The dispensingnozzle has a dispensing end 5 from which product is dispensed. Aninternal conduit 6 is provided in the nozzle body 2 and delivers productfrom the base portion 3 to the dispensing end 5. The conduit 6 exits thedispensing nozzle at the dispensing end 5 thereof at exit port 7. Alsoformed of the nozzle 1 are two opposing engaging formations in the formof transversely arranged ribs 8 a;8 b. The ribs 8 a;8 b which arearranged on (diametrically) opposed sides of the nozzle body 2, andwhich extend part circumferentially thereabout; are for inter-engagingwith the co-operating engaging formations on a cap as will be describedfurther below. The ribs 8 a;8 b are for holding the cap in a positionover-fitting the nozzle 1.

Also provided on the nozzle are a number of external ramps. The rampsare provided so that a co-operating portion on the cap may act againstthe ramps, so as to provide sufficient relative separation force betweenthe cap and the nozzle body to separate the respective engagingformations on the cap and the nozzle from an inter-engaged position. Theseparation force is achieved by relative rotation of the cap and thenozzle. In the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 5 each ramp provided has twooppositely facing ramp surfaces which may be referred to as a doubleramp.

In the embodiment shown, six ramps with twelve ramping surfaces areprovided. The ramps are arranged in (diametrically) opposing pairs. InFIGS. 1 to 5 each ramp provided is a double ramp.

In particular a first set of ramps 9 a;9 b are provided on a firstshoulder portion 40 defined in the nozzle body. A second set of ramps 10a;10 b are provided on a second shoulder portion 41 defined in thenozzle body. On the same shoulder portion 41 are provided a further setof opposing ramp surfaces 11 a;11 b. Each ramp comprises two oppositelyfacing ramp surfaces as will be described further below.

As can be seen from the Figures (best seen from FIG. 2) the externalshoulders 40;41 are defined on respective first and second bridgingportions 20;21 defined in the nozzle body. A third bridging portion 22is also provided. Each bridging portion is formed between parts of thenozzle having different diameters. In particular as can be seen from theFigures there are provided four portions of the nozzle each of differentdiameter. The nozzle portions in question have been respectivelylabelled 30;31;32;33 with reference numeral 30 being assigned to thenozzle portion of greatest diameter while reference numeral 33 has beenassigned to the nozzle portion of least diameter. The nozzle portion ofgreatest diameter is generally arranged to form the annular skirt 4. Thenozzle portion 33 of least diameter is dimensioned to receive and retaina dispensing cannula which may be fitted to the nozzle if desired. Aswill be further described below, when a cap is fitted over the nozzle itwill generally receive within the cap housing, nozzle portions 31-33while portion 30 will remain outside the cap. As best seen from FIG. 5the reduction in the nozzle diameter is substantially co-incident on thenozzle with a reduction in the diameter of the conduit 6.

In the embodiment shown the bridging portions 20 and 21 each areprovided with a shoulder portion, respectively labelled 40;41. As can beseen from the Figures each shoulder 40;41 extends circumferentiallyabout at least a portion of the nozzle body 2. Generally the orientationof the shoulder portion 40;41 is substantially transverse to thelongitudinal axis of the nozzle body 2. Ramps 9 a;9 b are formed on theshoulder portion 40 while ramps 10 a;10 b and 11 a;11 b are formed onthe shoulder portion 41.

As best seen from FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 each ramp has a first lower portionand a second higher portion. In particular ramps 9 a;9 b have a dishedshape being formed in a trough shape in the shoulder 40.

The ramps 9 a;9 b are formed by generally arcuate surfaces defined inthe shoulder 40. The ramps have a central lower point (at the lowestpoint of the general trough shape) which is generally indicated byreference numeral 50. On respective sides of the low point 50 are twooppositely facing inclined ramp surfaces 51 which meet contiguouslyabout point 50. This gives each of ramps 9 a;9 b a double ramp profile.The ramp surfaces 51 are oblique to the direction of rotational movementof the cap. Movement along the ramp surfaces from the point 50 (alongeither of the inclined surfaces) will provide a lifting action, asmovement from a lower point to a higher point will occur. This liftingaction will cause a separation force between the nozzle 1 and a cap aswill be described in more detail below. The ramping surfaces 51 can beconsidered to be symmetrical in shape. In view of the arcuate shape ofthe ramping surfaces 51 they can be considered to be curved about atransverse axis of the nozzle body. The ramp surfaces form a generallyconcave shape. Because of the shape of the ramp surfaces the lifting orramping action will be experienced by moving in either of two opposingdirections about the nozzle body. These opposing directions can beconsidered to be clockwise or anti-clockwise about the longitudinal axisof the nozzle body. The nozzle portion in which the limbs or inclinedsurfaces 51 of the ramp arrangement are defined extend to meet at anapex 53. Two apices 53 are formed where the inclined surfaces meet.

As illustrated in FIGS. 1-5, but perhaps best seen from FIGS. 1, 2 and5, the ramps 9 a;9 b are provided on a ridge portion on the shoulder 40.In the embodiment shown the ridge portion is formed as an upraised lipor wall portion 60 (which extends about the wall of the second nozzleportion 31) in an annular arrangement. In particular the wall portion 60is spaced from the nozzle portion 31. Defined between the wall portion60 and the nozzle portion 31 is an annular seat 61. The annular seat 61is arranged to receive a part of the cap in a manner to be describedbelow.

It will be appreciated that the ramps 9 a;9 b provide a strong visualreference for the correct alignment of the nozzle with a cap as will bedescribed below. Further provided on the exterior of the nozzle is amarker which gives a further visual reference for the correct alignmentof the cap and the nozzle. In the embodiment the marker is on aprominent surface, which may be as illustrated, a raised surface 62 onthe nozzle body. The prominent surface could also be a recessed one withrespect to the nozzle body. As seen in FIG. 1 the raised surface 62 isin the shape of an arrow, with the tip of the arrow pointing to thecentre of the ramp 9 b. A second (opposing) arrow is provided also whichpoints to the ramp 9 a.

Also provided on the nozzle body portion 30 are a series of inclinedgripping ribs 63 which allow for ease of manual gripping of the nozzle1.

The shoulder 21 is arranged so as to be located within the housingformed by the cap body when the cap is in the over-fitted position onthe nozzle (the components are mated). The (additional) ramps 10 a;10 bare arranged to co-operate with the ramps 9 a;9 b in a complementaryfashion by acting together with that other set of ramps to remove thecap. In particular each individual ramp is positioned and shaped so thatthey act together to provide separation force generally at the same timeand in the same direction at different positions between the cap and thenozzle. Each one of a pair of opposing ramps is a mirror image of theother of the pair and the ramps are arranged at diametrically opposedpositions.

The ramps 10 a;10 b are provided absent a ridge arrangement such asdescribed above with reference to ramps 9 a;9 b. The ramps 10 a;10 b areprovided to act with a further co-operating portion of the cap whichwill generally be provided at an internal position to the cap. It willbe noted that the ramps 10 a; 10 b are defined by the profile of theshoulder 41.

Like ramps 9 a;9 b ramps 10 a;10 b are double ramps formed by opposingramp surfaces which are generally arcuate surfaces. The arcuate surfacesof ramps 10 a; 10 b are defined in the shoulder 41. The ramps have acentral lower point which is generally indicated by reference numeral 55in FIGS. 1-3. On respective sides of the lower point 55 are twooppositely inclined ramp surfaces 56. Movement from the point 55 alongeither of the inclined ramp surfaces 56 will provide a lifting action asmovement from a lower point to a higher point will occur. This liftingaction will cause a separation force between the nozzle 1 and a cap aswill be described in more detail below. The ramps 10 a;10 b can beconsidered to be symmetrical in shape due to the disposition of thearcuate surfaces which meet contiguously about point 55. In view of thearcuate shape of the ramps they can be considered to be curved about atransverse axis of the nozzle body. The ramp is generally concave inshape. As best seen from FIGS. 1 and 2 the ramps 10 a;10 b are generallyaligned with ramps 9 a;9 b. Ramps 10 a;10 b are generally of the sameshape as ramps 9 a;9 b though of lesser dimensions being located on bodyportion 31 which is of lesser diameter than body portions 30 on whichthe ramps 9 a;9 b are provided. Also in common with ramps 9 a;9 b, ramps10 a;10 b are provided at a position on the (shoulder) of the nozzlebody which runs along the external wall of the nozzle body. In generalthey are located on axes parallel to the longitudinal axis of thenozzle.

Further provided on the nozzle body 2, and in particular also onshoulder 41 are ramps 11 a;11 b, which are also double sided. Ramps 11a;11 b are provided for co-operation with internal longitudinal ribsrunning along the internal cap body such as described in more detailbelow. In particular it is to be noted that two sets of ramps 10 a;10 b,11 a;11 b are provided on the same shoulder portion 41 on the nozzle. Inparticular it may be desirable to provide one ramp which co-operateswith the internal projection(s) described above and another whichco-operates with the ribs. The separate ramps 10 a;10 b, 11 a;11 b arespaced apart (radially). In the embodiment shown the ramps 11 a;11 b areprovided at the junction between the bridging portion 41 and that partof the nozzle with a lesser diameter—nozzle portion 32. The ramps 11 a;11 b are provided at the junction between the bridging portion and thatpart of the nozzle with a greater diameter—nozzle portion 31.

The ramps 11 a;11 b have a central lower point 70 and two curved rampsurfaces 71 leading upward therefrom. The ramps are generally arcuate inshape similar to the other ramps as described above. The ramps 11 a; 11b are provided for co-operation with internal ribs on the cap body. Theinternal ribs will be described in more detail below.

The underside of the nozzle 1 (see FIGS. 4B and 5), about a mouth 80 ofthe annular skirt 4 are a series of ratchet teeth 81 for engaging withcorresponding teeth on the container to which the nozzle is to beattached. The inter-engagement of the teeth holds the nozzle againstsubsequent relative rotation of the nozzle and the container. Helicalscrewthreads 82 (FIG. 5) are provided on the underside of the skirt 4.The screwthreads allow for screw-thread attachment to a container.Alternatively the nozzle can be integrally formed with the container ifdesired. Also provided within the skirt portion 4 is an annular matingskirt 83 which is profiled for mating with the mouth of a container towhich the nozzle 1 may be attached. In particular the mating skirt 83has a sharp leading edge 84 which may be adapted for piercing a membraneon a container to which it is to be attached. Fitting the nozzle to thecontainer will cause the membrane to be ruptured.

FIGS. 6-10 show various views of a cap 100 of the present invention foruse with the nozzle of FIG. 1 to 5. The cap is adapted for overfittingthe nozzle 1 of the present invention. The overfitting arrangement willbe described in more detail below.

The cap 100 has a first closed end, which in the embodiment is a top end101. The cap 100 has a cap body 102 which is arranged to form a housingfor receiving the elongated nozzle 1. At a second end 103 the cap isopen and the cap forms a housing 103 a (best seen from FIG. 10). The cap100 has a mouth 104 about the open end thereof. The cap 100 has a lowerportion 105 of relatively large diameter. The cap further has an upperportion 107 which is of a reduced diameter as compared to portion 105.The upper and lower portions are joined by a bridging portion 106. Alocal narrowing of the diameter of the cap occurs across bridgingportion 106. The upper portion 107 tapers in width with a reducingdiameter towards top end 101. The upper portion 107 forms in general afrusto-conical shape. Ribs 108 are provided on the upper portion 107 ofthe cap. Further ribs 109 are provided on the lower portion 105 of thecap. Both sets of ribs allow for ease of manual gripping of the cap.

A number of co-operating portions are provided on the cap 100 as will bedescribed in more detail below.

In particular two opposing co-operating portions in the form ofprojections provided on the cap body 102 at the open end 103 thereof.The co-operating portions take the form of short ribs or lips 110 whichextend circumferentially only a short distance about the cap 100. Theribs project radially outwardly from the cap body 102. As illustrated itis desirable that the ribs 110 project radially outwardly beyond themouth 104 of the cap 100 (and also beyond the ramps 9 a;9 b—as will bedescribed below).

As best seen from FIGS. 6, 8 and 9B the ribs 110 have an underneathsurface that is shaped to match the profile of the ramps 9 a;9 b of thenozzle 1. The ribs 110 are arranged to mate with same when the cap 100is placed on the nozzle 1. As illustrated in FIG. 8 the ramp engagingsurface (in the embodiment the underneath surface of the ribs) has acurved profile. In particular the ribs are generally convex in shape.The ribs 110 have a mid-portion 112 which is arranged at a positionproud of the mouth 104 (in a longitudinal direction). In the orientationof FIG. 8 the mid portion 112 is arranged in a position where it isbeneath the mouth 104. The mid portion 112 is contiguously joined to twocurved surfaces 111. The curved surfaces generally terminate at the sideedges 113 of the ribs. The ribs have a front edge labelled 114. Eachco-operating portion (rib) can be considered to comprise a ramp also. Inparticular the two surfaces 112 can be considered to be ramp surfaceswhich engage with the ramp surfaces 51 of the nozzle 1. Again for thereasons described above, the two oppositely facing inclined surfaces oneach co-operating portion are provided, so as to allow the co-operatingportion and the ramp it co-operates with, to act to separate the capfrom the nozzle when the cap and the nozzle are subjected to relativerotation (about a longitudinal axis thereof) in either of opposingdirections. It will be appreciated that having only one surface on theco-operating portion acting on one surface on the ramp will besufficient to effect separation. Opposing (diametrically) co-operatingportions are provided for the purposes of provision of a separationforce on opposing sides of the cap/nozzle.

Further provided on an exterior wall of the cap 100 is an alignmentindicator in the form of an arrow 120. The arrow is formed by anupraised surface in portion 107 and a recessed surface in portion 105.The arrow (like the arrow provided on the nozzle) may be provided with asurface of different texture (as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 8) to thatof the remainder of the component to make it more distinct to the eye.Indeed two opposing arrows are provided as best seen in FIG. 9 a.

As best seen from FIGS. 9B and 10 there are provided internallongitudinal ribs within the housing 103 a of the cap body 102. Thereare two types of rib, a first kind which runs from the closed end 101 ofthe cap to a position roughly half way along the cap body. In theembodiment there are four such ribs each labelled 130. The ribs 130 aregenerally shorter than two other ribs which run from the closed end 101of the cap to a position closer to the open end mouth 104 of the capbody. Those ribs are labelled 131 in the drawings. In general each ofribs 130;131 have the function of providing guiding surfaces for theinserted nozzle 1. In particular the ribs are shaped (in the embodimenttapered) to match a (tangential) profile of the nozzle. In this way thenozzle is guided through its insertion centrally in the cap. Anintegrally formed pin 132 projects in to the housing from the closed end102 of the cap 100. In the cap on position, the pin 132 penetrates intothe tip of the nozzle as will be described below.

The closed end 101 of the cap 100 has an annular recess 135 about a pin136 which marks the injection moulding point of the cap (see FIG. 10).

The interior of the cap 100 is provided with an inter-engaging formationwhich in the embodiment is a continuous annular ring or collar 140 whichstands proud of the internal wall of the nozzle. When the cap and nozzleare brought together in the correct manner the formations 8 a;8 b on thenozzle snap into engagement with the collar 140 thus holding the cap andthe nozzle together. When relative rotation of the cap and the nozzletakes place the ramp/co-operating portion arrangement unsnaps thesnap-fit mechanism. It does so by providing sufficient separation forcebetween the cap and the nozzle to force separation. It acts to push onepart of a snap-fit mechanism past another. This breaks the hold betweenthe pieces.

Further provided at an internal position on the cap 100 are furtherco-operating means. In particular at one end of the bridging portion 106is the cap portion 107 of reduced diameter. Formed internally at thejunction of the bridging portion 106 and the cap portion 107 is aninternal shoulder 150. The shoulder 150 extends about the entire insidewall of the cap 100. The shoulder 150 is profiled to mate with the ramps10 a;10 b and to act in the same manner as the mating of ramps 9 a;9 bwith co-operating portions 110. The shoulder 150 is provided with twogenerally co-operating portions. In particular at opposing sides of thecap and generally aligned circumferentially with co-operating portion110 are two convex surfaces 151 formed by an underneath surface of theshoulder 150 that is shaped to match the profile of the ramps 10 a;10 bof the nozzle 1. As illustrated in FIG. 10 the ramp engaging surface (inthe embodiment the underneath surface) of the shoulder has a curvedprofile. The co-operating portions each have a mid portion 152 which isarranged at a first position closer to the mouth 104 of the cap 100. Themid portion 152 is contiguously joined to two curved surfaces 153 whichare inclined in opposite directions. The curved surfaces 153 generallyrun upwards (in the orientation of FIG. 10) from the mid point 152toward the closed of the nozzle. In particular provision of twoco-operating portions each of which with two sets of inclined surfacessuch as described allows for the even distribution of the separatingforce about the nozzle and cap bodies and also allows for separationirrespective of the relative rotational direction of the nozzle and thecap. Again these constructions co-act with the others provided, toprovide a combined separation force.

The longer ribs 131 each act as a co-operating portion to act with ramps11 a;11 b. In particular the lower (free) ends 155 of ribs 131 arearranged to act on ramps 11 a;11 b on relative rotation of the cap andnozzle to provide separation force. Because of the proximity of the ribs131 and the ramps 11 a; 11 b to the nozzle the lifting force provided isvery useful in removing the cap from the nozzle as force is providedlongitudinally proximate the nozzle where bonding of the cap tithenozzle might occur.

FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of the cap 100 overfitted on the nozzle1 and snapped into engagement. As can be seen the arrows 120 and 62 arealigned. Furthermore co-operating portions (ribs) 110 project beyond theoutside wall (and ramps 9 a;9 b) of the nozzle. Apart from the arrows itis also clear that the profiled shapes of the cap and the nozzle give avisual indication of the orientation in which the cap and nozzle mate.

FIG. 12 shows a cross sectional view of the assembled arrangement of thecap 100 and nozzle 1. In the arrangement the co-operating portions ofthe cap are each fitted into the central lower portions of the ramps onthe nozzle. FIG. 12 illustrates well the interfitting position.

In the assembled position of FIG. 12 the pin 132 on the nozzle fits intothe exit port 7 of the conduit 6. A part of the nozzle—nozzle portion 30is external to the cap. The remainder of the nozzle (portions 31-33) isinside the cap. In particular shoulder 41 (with its associated ramps 10a;10 b, 11 a;11 b) is located internally in the nozzle. The cap 100 andin particular the mouth 104 thereof is seated in the annular seat 61 ofthe nozzle which is between wall 60 and the nozzle. It will be seen inFIG. 12 that the mouth 104 of the cap 100 has an inclined surface 160for mating with the inside surface of wall 60.

Annular engaging collar 140 having been snap fitted past the engagingformations 8 a;8 b on the nozzle thus holding the cap in place. Relativerotation of the cap 100 and the nozzle 1 will cause all co-operatingportions to act on a ramp surface which in turn will be sufficient topush collar 140 back across engaging formations 8 a;8 b on the nozzle.

FIGS. 13-16 show an alternative embodiment of a nozzle of the inventionwhich is very similar to the nozzle construction of FIGS. 1 to 5. Inthis respect only the main differences in construction will be describedfor brevity. It will be appreciated that the nozzle will thus functionin the same way.

The nozzle 201 has a ramp 209 b (an opposing ramp is not shown) which inturn has two oblique surfaces 251 about a central low point 250. In theembodiment a stop 260 is provided on the nozzle on one (the left) of theoblique surfaces. The stop is formed by a step in the nozzle along theramp oblique surface 251. As best seen from the assembled configurationshown in FIG. 21 the cap 300, (in particular a sidewall 400 of the rib310) abuts the stop 260. The opposite side of the nozzle corresponds inconstruction to that of the side shown as best seen form the top view ofFIG. 15.

The interengaging formation 208 b is formed with a substantiallytransverse portion 280 and an oblique portion 281. The shape of theformation 208 b is such as to allow a corresponding interengagingformation on the cap to either be snapped over the formation 208 b orrotated so as to be located thereunder. By way of either push-on ortwist-on the cap and the nozzle end up in the assembled configurationshown in FIG. 21. The formation 208 b follows the general profile of theoblique surface 251 and thus the corresponding interengaging formationon the cap will follow the guide provided by the formation 208 b as thecap is moved into the engaged position.

Further provided on the embodiment of FIG. 13 is a generally cylindricalnozzle portion 282. The cylindrical portion 282 is provided forco-operation with internal ribs within the cap for better guiding thecap onto the nozzle.

Additionally a dispensing portion 283 of reduced diameter has beenprovided which allows for a more precise dispensing by a user, forexample dispensing of a drop of adhesive product. FIG. 16 shows asectional view of the nozzle 201 which will be explained in more detailbelow with reference to FIG. 22.

The corresponding cap 330 is shown in FIGS. 17 to 20. The constructionis very similar to that of FIGS. 6 to 12 and it will be appreciated thatit functions in a similar way. As best seen from FIG. 20, the maindifferences are internal to the cap 300.

In the embodiment shown it will be appreciated that the pin 32 isslightly longer than that of the previous embodiment and has beenadapted in view of the change in construction of the nozzle dispensingend 283. Furthermore two different types of internal ribs—those numbered330 and those numbered 331 are provided. There are two longer ribs 331which are designed to assist with the ramping action in a manneranalogous to that of ribs 131 above. The ribs 331 have a portion 340which corresponds to that of ribs 330 and transition at step 32 to a ribportion 341 of reduced height to allow for accommodation of the nozzle.Counting the portions 340 or ribs 331, there are 6 ribs of the form orribs 330. These 6 ribs act to centre the cap over the nozzle and toprovide stability between the cap and the nozzle. An internal ramped rim350 is also arranged to act with a ramping action.

The interengaging formation 360 is formed internally within the cap 300.The formation has a substantially transverse rib portion 361 and obliquethereto an oblique portion 362 (which is angled downwards at a smallangle). The formation 360 is arranged to co-operate with the formation208 b on the nozzle 201. As will be appreciated from FIGS. 18 and 21 inparticular, the lips 310 are each provided with a stop 400 which abutsthe stop 260 on the cap.

The assembled configuration is shown in FIG. 22. In that Figure it canbe seen that formation 360 (an opposing formation 364) on the cap 300are engaged with and held in place underneath formation 208 a andopposing formation 208 b. The cap can be disengaged form the nozzle bysnapping off or twisting. It can be applied by the same mechanisms also.

It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, forclarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also beprovided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, variousfeatures of the invention which are, for brevity, described in thecontext of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or inany suitable subcombination.

The words “comprises/comprising” and the words “having/including” whenused herein with reference to the present invention are used to specifythe presence of stated features, integers, steps or components but doesnot preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,integers, steps, components or groups thereof.

1. A dispensing nozzle comprising: (i) an elongate nozzle body having abase portion and a dispensing end; (ii) an internal conduit in thenozzle body for delivering product from the base portion to thedispensing end; (iii) engaging formations on the nozzle forinter-engaging with co-operating engaging formations on a cap, to holdsaid cap in a position over-fitting the nozzle; and (iv) an externalramp on the nozzle body and against which a co-operating portion on thecap may act, to provide sufficient relative separation force between thecap and the nozzle body, to separate the engaging formations on the capand the nozzle from an inter-engaged position.
 2. A nozzle according toclaim 1 wherein the separating force of the co-operating surface and theexternal ramp is provided by the action of relative rotation of the capand the nozzle in at least one direction.
 3. A nozzle according to claim1 wherein the ramp comprises a ramping surface oblique to the directionof rotation of the cap.
 4. A nozzle according to claim 1 wherein theseparating force of the co-operating surface and the external ramp isprovided by the action of relative rotation of the cap and the nozzle intwo opposing directions.
 5. A nozzle according to claim 4 wherein theramp comprises two opposing ramp surfaces which are oblique to thedirection of rotation of the cap.
 6. A nozzle according to claim 2wherein the relative rotation required to effect separation is less thanabout 90°.
 7. A nozzle according to claim 2 wherein the relativerotation required to effect separation is less than about 80°.
 8. Anozzle according to claim 2 wherein the relative rotation required toeffect separation is less than about 60°.
 9. A nozzle according to claim2 wherein the ramp is provided by a ramp surface on an external shoulderdefined on the nozzle body.
 10. A nozzle according to claim 9 whereinthe external shoulder is defined on a bridging portion on the nozzle,which bridges two portions of the nozzle having different diameters. 11.A nozzle according to claim 9 wherein the shoulder provides a surfacecircumferentially disposed about at least a portion of a longitudinalaxis of the nozzle body.
 12. A nozzle according to claim 11 wherein theorientation of the surface is substantially transverse to thelongitudinal axis of the nozzle body.
 13. A nozzle according to claim 1wherein the ramp comprises a ramp surface with a first portion and asecond portion arranged so that movement along the ramp from the firstto the second portion will provide a desired lift.
 14. A nozzleaccording to claim 1 in which the ramp comprises two opposing rampsurfaces arranged to meet contiguously at lower ends thereof.
 15. Anozzle according to claim 1 wherein the ramp is curved about alongitudinal axis of the nozzle so as to follow the travel path of theco-operating portion on the cap of the nozzle.
 16. A nozzle according toclaim 1 wherein the ramp is provided on a circumferentially arrangedridge portion which is spaced from, and extends about, a wall portion ofthe nozzle portion.
 17. A nozzle according to claim 1 wherein the rampis arranged so as to be clearly visible to a user in both the disengagedor inter-engaged position.
 18. A nozzle according to claim 1 wherein thenozzle inter-engages with the cap in a push fit manner.
 19. A nozzleaccording to claim 18 wherein the nozzle inter-engages with the cap in asnap-fit arrangement.
 20. A nozzle according to claim 18 wherein thenozzle additionally inter-engages with the cap in a twist-fitarrangement.
 21. A nozzle according to claim 1 wherein first and secondramps are provided longitudinally spaced apart along the nozzle body.22. A nozzle according to claim 21 wherein snap-fit formations on thenozzle body are arranged on the nozzle body between said first andsecond ramps.
 23. A nozzle according to claim 1 wherein first and secondramps are provided transversely spaced apart on the nozzle body.
 24. Anozzle according to claim 21 wherein said first and second ramps areprovided on a shoulder on the nozzle.
 25. A nozzle according to claim 21wherein a further cooperating portion of the cap is arranged to actagainst said second ramp.
 26. A nozzle according to claim 1 comprisingat least one further external ramp on the nozzle body against whichinternal longitudinal ribs running along the internal cap body may act.27. A cap for overfitting a dispensing nozzle comprising: (i) a firstclosed end; (ii) a housing for receiving an elongate nozzle body anddefining a second open end; (iii) engaging formations on the cap forinter-engaging with co-operating engaging formations on the nozzle, tohold said cap in a position over-fitting the nozzle; and (iii) a mouthabout the open end; at least one co-operating portion on the caparranged to act on a ramping surface of the nozzle when overfitted onthe nozzle so as to provide sufficient relative separation force betweenthe cap and the nozzle body, to separate the engaging formations on thecap and the nozzle from an inter-engaged position.
 28. A cap accordingto claim 27 wherein said at least one co-operating portion projection isshaped to mate with the ramp surface.
 29. A cap according to claim 27wherein the separating force of the co-operating surface and theexternal ramp is provided by the action of relative rotation of the capand the nozzle in at least one direction.
 30. A cap according to claim27 wherein the separating force of the co-operating surface and theexternal ramp is provided by the action of relative rotation of the capand the nozzle in two opposing directions.
 31. A cap according to claim29 wherein the relative rotation required to effect separation is lessthan about 90°.
 32. A cap according to claim 29 wherein the relativerotation required to effect separation is less than about 80°.
 33. A capaccording to claim 29 wherein the relative rotation required to effectseparation is less than about 60°.
 34. A cap according to claim 27wherein said at least one co-operating portion is of a convex shape. 35.A cap according to claim 27 wherein said at least one co-operatingportion is in the form of a projection.
 36. A cap according to claim 27wherein the travel path of the co-operating portion on the cap is acircumferential path about the nozzle.
 37. A cap according to claim 27comprising two opposing co-operating portions provided on the cap.
 38. Acap according to claim 27 comprising internal inter-engaging formationfor inter-engaging with formations located externally on the nozzle. 39.A cap according to claim 27 comprising a further co-operating portion onthe cap for co-operating with a further ramp on the nozzle.
 40. A capaccording to claim 39 wherein the further co-operating portion of thecap is provided on an internal shoulder.
 41. A cap according to claim 27further comprising at least one internal longitudinal rib running alongthe internal cap body from the closed end toward the open end.
 42. A capaccording to claim 27 further comprising at least two internallongitudinal ribs spaced apart within the cap body and running along theinternal cap body from the closed end toward the open end thereof.
 43. Acap according to claim 27 further comprising a pin within the housingattached at one end to the cap and having a free end projecting towardthe open end of the cap.
 44. A cap according to claim 27 arranged tooverfit and inter-engage with a nozzle.
 45. A nozzle according to claim1 arranged to have overfitted thereto and inter-engaged therewith a cap.46. An assembly comprising a cap for overfitting a dispensing nozzlecomprising: (i) a first closed end; (ii) a housing for receiving anelongate nozzle body and defining a second open end; (iii) engagingformations on the cap for inter-engaging with co-operating engagingformations on the nozzle, to hold said cap in a position over-fittingthe nozzle; and (iii) a mouth about the open end; at least oneco-operating portion on the cap arranged to act on a ramping surface ofthe nozzle when overfitted on the nozzle so as to provide sufficientrelative separation force between the cap and the nozzle body, toseparate the engaging formations on the cap and the nozzle from aninter-engaged position overfitted on and engaged with a nozzlecomprising: (i) an elongate nozzle body having a portion and adispensing end; (ii) an internal conduit in the nozzle body fordelivering product from the base portion to the dispensing end; (iii)engaging formations on the nozzle for inter-engaging with co-operatingengaging formations on a cap, to hold said cap in a positionover-fitting the nozzle; and (iv) an external ramp on the nozzle bodyand against which a co-operating portion on the cap may act, to providesufficient relative separation force between the cap and the nozzlebody, to separate the engaging formations on the cap and the nozzle froman inter-engaged position.
 47. A container having integrally formedtherewith a nozzle comprising: (i) an elongate nozzle body having a baseportion and a dispensing end; (ii) an internal conduit in the nozzlebody for delivering product from the base portion to the dispensing end;(iii) engaging formations on the nozzle for inter-engaging withco-operating engaging formations on a cap, to hold said cap in aposition over-fitting the nozzle; and (iv) an external ramp on thenozzle body and against which a co-operating portion on the cap may act,to provide sufficient relative separation force between the cap and thenozzle body, to separate the engaging formations on the cap and thenozzle from an inter-engaged position, the nozzle arranged fordispensing dispensable product from the container.
 48. A containerhaving attached thereto a nozzle comprising: (i) an elongate nozzle bodyhaving a base portion and a dispensing end; (ii) an internal conduit inthe nozzle body for delivering product from the base portion to thedispensing end; (iii) engaging formations on the nozzle forinter-engaging with co-operating engaging formations on a cap, to holdsaid cap in a position over-fitting the nozzle; and (iv) an externalramp on the nozzle body and against which a co-operating portion on thecap may act, to provide sufficient relative separation force between thecap and the nozzle body, to separate the engaging formations on the capand the nozzle from an inter-engaged position, the nozzle arranged fordispensing dispensable product from the container.
 49. A containeraccording to claim 47 further comprising a cap for overfitting adispensing nozzle comprising: (i) a first closed end; (ii) a housing forreceiving an elongate nozzle body and defining a second open end; (iii)engaging formations on the cap for inter-engaging with co-operatingengaging formations on the nozzle, to hold said cap in a positionover-fitting the nozzle; and (iii) a mouth about the open end; at leastone co-operating portion on the cap arranged to act on a ramping surfaceof the nozzle when overfitted on the nozzle so as to provide sufficientrelative separation force between the cap and the nozzle body, toseparate the engaging formations on the cap and the nozzle from aninter-engaged position overfitted on and engaged with the nozzle.
 50. Acontainer according to claim 47 containing therein a curable product.51. A container according to claim 50 wherein the curable product is anadhesive product.
 52. A container according to claim 51 wherein theadhesive is a cyanoacrylate adhesive.
 53. A container according to claim48 further comprising a cap for overfitting a dispensing nozzlecomprising: (i) a first closed end; (ii) a housing for receiving anelongate nozzle body and defining a second open end; (iii) engagingformations on the cap for inter-engaging with co-operating engagingformations on the nozzle, to hold said cap in a position over-fittingthe nozzle; and (iii) a mouth about the open end; at least oneco-operating portion on the cap arranged to act on a ramping surface ofthe nozzle when overfitted on the nozzle so as to provide sufficientrelative separation force between the cap and the nozzle body, toseparate the engaging formations on the cap and the nozzle from aninter-engaged position overfitted on and engaged with the nozzle.
 54. Acontainer according to claim 48 containing therein a curable product.